Black-sided Flowerpecker

The Black-sided Flowerpecker, or Dicaeum monticolum, is a diminutive passerine endemic to the montane regions of Borneo. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with the male adorned in glossy blue-black upperparts and a striking scarlet throat and breast, while the female is cloaked in more subdued olive-green and greyish tones.

Identification Tips

Males are unmistakable with their glossy blue-black plumage and scarlet throat and breast. Females and immatures are more olive-green above and greyish below, with buffy flanks and a whitish throat. Both sexes possess dark brown irises, black bills, and feet described as brown or dark grey.

Habitat

The Black-sided Flowerpecker frequents a variety of forest habitats, ranging from primary and secondary montane forests to kerangas forests and scrub. It can also be occasionally spotted in gardens.

Distribution

This bird is a mountain dweller, typically found above 1,000 meters in elevation, though it may descend to lower altitudes on larger mountains. It is most commonly recorded in the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak.

Behaviour

The species does not engage in seasonal or altitudinal migrations and is known to forage from the forest floor to the canopy.

Song & Calls

Its vocal repertoire includes a high-pitched 'zit', a weak 'tseeep', a quick 'tsit-tsit', a slurred 'tsweet tsweet', and a loud, steady clicking.

Breeding

Breeding details are scarce, but young have been observed from November to February. The nest is a mossy construction, camouflaged with lichens and lined with tree fern pith.

Similar Species

The female may be mistaken for the Plain Flowerpecker but is distinguishable by her larger size, whiter throat, and more olive-toned back.

Diet and Feeding

The Black-sided Flowerpecker primarily feeds on mistletoe berries, other small fruits, seeds, nectar, and various invertebrates, often foraging close to the ground.

Conservation status

Rated as Least Concern by the IUCN, the Black-sided Flowerpecker is common throughout its range. However, habitat destruction for palm oil plantations could pose future threats.